Cam Newton one step closer to Heisman Trophy

The Auburn quarterback is writing his ticket to New York.

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October 25, 2010|By Matt Murschel, ORLANDO SENTINEL

Cam Newton

QB, Auburn

Buzz: You don't need any more proof that Newton is a Heisman Trophy contender than what he did against sixth-ranked LSU Saturday. The junior capped off a career day with an amazing 49-yard touchdown run through the heart of the Tigers' defense, dragging defenders with him into the end zone and propelling fourth-ranked Auburn to a 24-17 win and a perfect 8-0 start.

Up next: at Mississippi, Sat.

LaMichael James

RB, Oregon

Buzz: The only thing that has stopped the Ducks running back was a suspension in Week 1 of the season. Through six games, James has rushed for 971 yards and 11 touchdowns to help power Oregon's rise atop the college football landscape.

Up next: at USC, Sat.

Kellen Moore

QB, Boise State

Buzz: After flying under the national radar the past three weeks, Moore will get a chance to show off to voters as Boise State plays four of their next five games on national television.

Up next: vs. Louisiana Tech, Tues.

Denard Robinson

QB, Michigan

Buzz: After starting the season as an early favorite, Robinson has fallen back into the pack, thanks in part, to some nagging injuries and tougher opposition. But don't count him out yet as he still ranks second in the nation in total offense (2,415 yards).

Up next: at Penn State, Sat.

Landry Jones

QB, Oklahoma

Buzz: Jones' Heisman chances took a huge hit Saturday when the top-ranked Sooners lost to No. 11 Missouri, 36-27. The sophomore threw for 303 yards and three touchdowns but had two costly interceptions.

Up next: vs. Colorado, Sat.

Kendall Hunter

RB, Oklahoma State

Buzz: When you play for one of the country's top offenses, you are bound to put up some big numbers and that's what Hunter has done this season. The senior has rushed for 1,031 yards and 12 touchdowns to lead the Cowboys to a 6-1 mark.

Up next: at Kansas State, Sat.

Taylor Martinez

QB, Nebraska

Buzz: The California native has put up record-setting numbers this season — 1,916 total yards and 20 TDs — however his chances are slim considering a freshman has never won the Heisman Trophy.